How Long Is the California Coast Road Trip?

By Alice Nichols

Taking a road trip along the California coast is an experience that many people dream of. The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) stretches over 600 miles along the state’s coastline and offers some of the most breathtaking views in the country.

But how long does it take to drive this iconic road trip? Let’s find out!

Route Options

Before we dive into the length of the trip, it’s essential to know your route options. There are two main routes you can choose from when traveling along the California coast:

  • The classic route starts in San Francisco and winds its way through Big Sur, Santa Barbara, and ends in Los Angeles.
  • The second option is to start in Los Angeles and travel north towards San Francisco.

Distance and Time

Driving from San Francisco to Los Angeles on the PCH takes about ten hours without traffic. However, if you want to take your time and enjoy all that this stunning drive has to offer, it’s best to spread it out over a few days.

San Francisco to Los Angeles

If you’re starting your journey in San Francisco and driving down towards Los Angeles, here’s a rough estimate of how long each leg of the trip will take:

  • San Francisco to Santa Cruz – approximately one hour
  • Santa Cruz to Monterey – approximately one hour
  • Monterey to Big Sur – approximately one hour
  • Big Sur to San Simeon – approximately two hours
  • San Simeon to Santa Barbara – approximately three hours
  • Santa Barbara to Los Angeles – approximately two hours

This adds up to around ten hours without stops, but it’s important to note that there are plenty of places to stop and explore along the way.

Los Angeles to San Francisco

If you’re starting in Los Angeles and driving up towards San Francisco, here’s a rough estimate of how long each leg of the trip will take:

  • Los Angeles to Santa Barbara – approximately two hours
  • Santa Barbara to San Simeon – approximately three hours
  • San Simeon to Big Sur – approximately two hours
  • Big Sur to Monterey – approximately one hour
  • Monterey to Santa Cruz – approximately one hour
  • Santa Cruz to San Francisco – approximately one hour

This also adds up to around ten hours without stops.

The Verdict

So how long is the California coast road trip? The answer ultimately depends on how much time you have and how many stops you want to make along the way.

If you’re looking for a leisurely trip with plenty of sightseeing and exploration, it’s best to take at least five days. But if you’re short on time, you can do it in as little as three days.

Wherever you start your journey, be sure to take your time and enjoy all that this incredible drive has to offer. From stunning beaches and rugged coastline to charming towns and delicious food, a road trip along the California coast is an unforgettable experience that should be savored.